Dear Jackson and Addison,
Summer has begun! It's time for sleeping in (I'll take 6:30), popsicles and lots of swimming. We've bee hitting the pool in the evenings, and both of you are doing so well. Jackson has figured swimming out, now we're working on doing it continuously. Next up for Jackson is treading water. Addison is just building her confidence. She can swim, but prefers to do so in her frog life jacket. It's super cute to watch both of you splash and play in the water especially because you both wear your caps and goggles. We're also trying to be more specific about our play. Certain activities that are "fun" also help build muscle tone, which is our goal for the summer. I know, body building for a 6 year old? But that's what you need right now, Jackson. We're doing a lot of scooting on our tummies down the hall (good thing it's a long one) and playing lots of operation, play doh, and bike riding (although Jackson is still not too keen on this one). We're also reading...a lot! As you both get older, we will have specific "school time" in the summers, but this summer, our "school time" is really about the muscles. Jackson's going to be spending some time each week with an occupational therapist to continue to grow his muscles, and develop his "sensory toolbox" so that we can continue to help him regulate. We're super excited about this place because they also incorporate "hippotherapy" which is using/riding horses during their sessions. Jackson, I hope you see this as a fun thing and don't realize that we are "working." That adventure starts next week!!
We've finally got all of the rash under control for little miss! Last diagnosis was "molluscum contagiosum and molluscum dermatitis." The doctor said that it's common and goes away on it's own in 6 months to a year (our luck). I just laughed because it's so common that no one I know has ever heard of it. Addison, we know you got this one from Jackson, but yours looks completely different from his so I didn't even put it together that it could be the same thing. At least we seem to be starting the summer off with a clean slate in the health department! You are also doing an AWESOME job helping around the house. You are finally cleaning your room and you love to help put away the dishes. I love it!
Mom and Dad are taking a trip this summer. I'm excited to spend time with your dad, but I know we will miss you! You will have an awesome time with Grandma and Grandpa H and also Aunt Tara, Uncle Ed and Parker, but still. We have never been gone for more that a few nights...so this will be a first. I want you to know that we love you very much, which is part of the reason that we are taking this trip. It's Grandma and Grandpa B's 50th wedding anniversary, but as you get older and get married one day, it's important to remember to put your marriage first. And your marriage will take work if you want to make it to 50 years (which we do!!). So we are going to go and enjoy each other.
I want you to remember that you are there for one another. The love between you (even when you fight) is so strong. The way you both care for each other when something happens, the compassion you share, warms my heart. It means that for everything we struggle with, we are still getting things right! You will ALWAYS have each other, so be there for one another and help support each other. Together you guys will get through anything.
Make sure you get your hands dirty, it's the best way to learn. When you touch it and explore it, you can learn it. Have fun and play, and don't be afraid to get messy....we just have to continue to work on cleaning up!
Keep that amazement and surprise in your eyes. As you discover new things, discover them to their fullest. Ask questions and continue asking questions so you can grow into the amazing individuals you are becoming. Look for the small things because beauty can always be found in the details.
Laugh. Make sure you find the humor in any situation. Remember that others may not appreciate, or get your humor, but that's ok. Always be sensitive to others though, and don't laugh at them. That hurts feelings. So if you see that happening, make sure you stand up for that person. No one wants to be the target of someone else's laughter. Also, don't forget to laugh at yourself. If you can't laugh when you make a mistake, then life is going to be a challenge. It's important to be able to find the lighter side of things, especially for yourself.
Keep your eyes wide open for adventure. The whole world is out there, and there are adventures everywhere. Perspective is key, so if you keep that in mind, you will be able to get through any situation. Turn it into an adventure, even if you don't want to be doing it. Both daddy and I have "adventures" at work that we would rather not have, but we do and we finish them because it's important. Your adventures are learning, playing and growing all you can this summer!
I know this is a lot to throw at you right now. But it's on my mind. Also remember that change can be a good thing. This is difficult for me, I've never been good at embracing change....sometimes I doubt my decisions. But I've learned that as long as I keep myself focused on my goals and what matters most in my life (our family), then I can make the decisions, even if it means changing things.
Your daddy and I are so proud of you and love you so much. Seeing the world through your eyes has taught us so much, and I know that this summer will be no different. Play. Rest. Get dirty.
Love,
Mommy
